Teen Sensation Alani Morse Secures Dream Wildcard for WSL Raglan Pro

Raglan local Alani Morse and Taranaki’s Tom Butland won the King and Queen of the Point to join Billy Stairmand for the upcoming WSL World Tour event at Manu Bay.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 8:44 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Breaking Development: Last-Minute Heroics at Manu Bay

The finals at Raglan's iconic Manu Bay provided high-stakes drama for the local surfing community.

The Women's Final: Alani Morse was in fourth place as the clock ticked down. With less than 60 seconds remaining, the 15-year-old caught a final wave, scoring a 6.93 to jump from last to first. "I was in tears after that final," Morse said. "I knew God had it under control... I can't believe what just happened."

The Men's Final: 24-year-old Tom Butland utilized a patient strategy after a slow start. He posted scores of 8.50 and 7.87 to overcome a tough field including Elliot Paerata and Kora Cooper. Butland described the wildcard opportunity as "wild" and "unbelievable."

Background and Strategic Context: WSL Returns to New Zealand

The WSL Corona Cero New Zealand Pro (scheduled for May 15–16, 2026) marks a significant return of the world's surfing elite to Kiwi shores.